Unbinding Tradition

101. Being apart 😟

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The first golden rays of dawn filtered through the sheer curtains, casting a soft glow across the room. The chirping of birds outside signaled the arrival of a new day, but inside, everything was still and quiet.

Jungkook lay awake, his eyes heavy but his mind restless. Sleep had evaded him all night, his thoughts cycling between the weight of his demotion, the Sarpanch's threats, and Tae's tearful face from last night.

Beside him, Tae stirred slightly, her arm still wrapped protectively around Hyunnie, who lay sprawled in the middle, his small chest rising and falling with each peaceful breath.

Jungkook turned his head to look at them.

A sight so simple, yet so grounding.

Tae's forehead rested gently against Hyunnie's soft curls, her lips slightly parted as she slept. She looked exhausted. Even in sleep, her brows faintly creased-as if her heart still carried the weight of last night's fear.

Jungkook swallowed.

He had put that worry in her eyes.

A sudden shift in movement pulled him from his thoughts.

Hyunnie stirred, his tiny arms stretching out like a starfish before he let out a small, sleepy whine.

Hyun- Mmm... umma... (he mumbled, shifting closer to Tae, burying his face into her chest)

Tae hummed softly in her sleep, instinctively pulling him closer, pressing a light kiss to his hair.

Jungkook's heart clenched at the sight.

How easily she comforted the little boy-even in her sleep.

How easily she had comforted him too, last night... even when she was the one in distress.

A soft knock on the door interrupted his thoughts.

Jungkook exhaled, carefully sitting up to avoid disturbing them. He glanced at Tae one last time before pulling the blanket over both her and Hyunnie, ensuring they stayed warm.

He quietly got up and made his way to the door, opening it just enough to step outside.

Sumi stood there, adjusting her dupatta over her head, a tray of morning tea in her hands.

Sumi Jeth-sa, I thought you might need this. (she said, her tone softer than usual)

Jungkook took the tray from her with a nod.

Jk- Thank you. (he muttered)

Sumi hesitated before speaking again.

Sumi- Tae didi... (she was really scared last night) she said cautiously, glancing past him toward the bed where Tae was still fast asleep.

Jungkook stiffened slightly but didn't respond.

Sumi sighed.

Sumi- I know things aren't easy right now, but... don't push her away. (she added before turning to leave)

Jungkook stood there for a moment, staring at the tea tray in his hands.

He clenched his jaw.

Pushing Tae away?

Hadn't he been doing that from the start?

Letting out a breath, he stepped back inside, quietly setting the tray down on the small table near the bed.